Dental Hygiene

This program prepares the student for employment as a dental hygienist including the expanded duties allowed by Washington State Law. This program has received accreditation status from the Commission on Dental Accreditation which allows students, upon graduation, to take the National Board Examination and the clinical licensing examination in the state where she or he plans to practice. Clinical experience is provided at the Lake Washington Technical College's dental clinic under the supervision of licensed dentists and licensed dental hygienists. Additional clinical experience occurs in a variety of off-campus settings located in the greater Seattle area.

There is a formal admissions process for entry into this program. The curriculum in the Dental Hygiene program consists of seven quarters, including a six-week summer quarter of full-time professional and clinical education preceded by two quarters of prerequisite courses. The prerequisite science courses must be at least seven years current upon program entry; be measured by a proficiency examination; or be waived by special petition to the Dental Hygiene Director. The dental hygiene courses must be taken successively.

Dental Hygiene AAS graduates will:

• Successfully complete both national and regional exams required for licensure administered by the American Dental Association.
• Be prepared for employment as expanded duties Registered Dental Hygienists and members of the oral healthcare team.
• Possess the critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to develop a dental hygiene diagnosis for all dental patients.

LWTC Dental Clinic

The LWTC dental clinic is staffed by dental professionals that include licensed dentists, dental hygienists, certified dental assistants and students serving patients' oral health care needs. Our patients provide an important link to our dental team by giving the students opportunity to work on patients in a clinical setting.

 *Program length is estimated. See your counselor or adviser.